Says Decision Will Only Hurt Struggling N.J. Economy Even More
(TRENTON) – Assembly Speaker Vincent Prieto (D-Hudson/Bergen) released the following statement Thursday on plans to close the Izod Center arena in the Meadowlands:
“The plan to close the Izod Center shows a disappointing lack of creative vision by the Christie administration and the authority.
“This facility brings jobs and economic activity to the Meadowlands area, and closing it with little notice or public discussion will hurt workers and efforts to catch up with the national recovery. New Jersey has long lagged behind the nation when it comes to economic growth and unemployment. We shouldn’t be adding to that problem with bad decisions.
“The Izod Center shouldbe a focal point of efforts to attract events, jobs and development to Meadowlands communities. Competition is indeed a factor, but my sense is the administration and authority haven’t done enough to make this arena a top attraction. I haven’t seen the foresight and creative thinking needed to promote this building properly.
“Once this building is closed, it will only be harder to reopen. If Nassau County can keep the Nassau Coliseum open with innovative ideas, then the state of New Jersey should be able to do the same, if not better.
“I will be exploring what legislative remedies may exist to save these jobs and this key driver of economic activity.”